Chapter: 258

Jonathan's hand froze mid-air, his cup suspended. He pressed his lips together. “We have many other talented lawyers."

"But Maddie should be the sole person credited for Bates Group's success, huh?"

Jonathan didn't deflect this time. He gazed up at Bethany, his tone serious. “What are you trying to tell me?"

Bethany began, but Jonathan cut her off abruptly.

"No talk of divorce."

Bethany was momentarily silenced. After a pause, she burst into laughter. “I never mentioned divorce. Take it easy."

Jonathan's tense expression eased slightly at her words.

In that instant, Bethany grasped the weight of her actions on Jonathan's psyche. He was raw and vulnerable.

She clasped his hand firmly, meeting his gaze with unwavering intensity.

"I promised to stand by you through it all. You've been there for me in ways I can't repay. I'm not giving up on us."

Her voice quivered with emotion as she reassured Jonathan, hoping to ease his worries.

Despite her heartfelt words, his brow remained furrowed with concern.

“Don't burden yourself with overthinking," he urged, her tone gentle yet resolute. “Leave everything to me. I'll take care of it all. Just focus on what makes you happy.”

Jonathan wanted to offer Bethany, this enigmatic woman who often hid behind masks, the very best he could.

Bethany's lips curved into a smile as she observed Bates Group's president. To others, he seemed cold, noble, and distant, yet to her, he spoke with warmth and kindness that touched her deeply.

She reasoned that even if her mother's warnings came true and Jonathan's intentions were fleeting, this moment alone was priceless.

She refused to dwell on any negative thoughts.

Maddie's abrupt resignation disrupted Bates Group's legal department.

Contract reviews stalled as no one was eager to step into Maddie's shoes, and those who tried proceeded with excessive caution.

Were it not for the pressing workload, some might have opted for sick leave to avoid the unfolding drama.

Within Bates Group, rumors swirled about Maddie and Jonathan's special connection. Many speculated that jealousy over Bethany drove Maddie's resignation, and they expected the latter's return within days.

Knock!

Brody entered the president's office, his expression conveying his concern. "Mr. Bates, the contract review process in the legal department is lagging severely. Any further complications from the acquisition company during this period could be detrimental."

Jonathan paused while his fingers are holding the pen.